Search - Dave Hall :: True

A very moved listener

03/07/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I just read a earlier review of True. It never ceases to amaze me how two people can experience such completely opposite reactions to the same thing. This cd is just magnificent. I've listened to it many, many times and from the very first few notes Mr. Hall sets a mood that is consistantly beautiful throughout. My favorite is Remember Summer. I can't help but well up with tears every time. I find Mr. Hall's song writing to be harmonically rich and complex and his lyrics insiteful, sensitive and wise. I don't think you will be disappointed, but there's no accounting for taste, is there."

Open-minded but honest

02/22/2001

(2 out of 5 stars)

"Like many others, I have to assume, I ordered this CD based on an interview, description, and favorable review in the Advocate. I don't want to listen to the same classic popular songs (from the 30s, 40s and 50s) again and again, so I try to be open to new material. The ingredients are certainly here: An individual true to his muse, high quality instrumental ingredients and sound production. However, this is a big disappointment. The opening arrangement sets a bad tone of namby-pambyism and the remainder of the CD is significantly predictable, cliched, and shallow. I've listened to it several times and tried to like it, but ultimately Mr. Hall has nothing interesting, compelling or affective to say. His observations and stories are banal; it was like listening to a typical first-year college student emote about his or her worldview. I'm sorry to sound so cruel, but this is supposed to be a forum for genuine customer feedback and recommendations (or lack of recommendations). For much, much better personal storytelling check out anything by Lori Lieberman, who is far more literate and creative and you care about where she's going in a song. Sorry Mr. Hall, my blind date with your CD was a major bust."